Do you remember when your last period started and how long it lasted? If not, you should probably start paying attention. Keeping track of your menstrual cycles can help you determine what is normal for you, time ovulation, and recognise significant changes, such as a missed period or unpredictable menstrual bleeding.
Although menstrual cycle irregularities are typically not serious, they can occasionally indicate a health problem.
What’s the menstrual cycle?
The menstrual cycle is the series of monthly changes a woman’s body undergoes in preparation for possible pregnancy. Ovulation is the monthly release of an egg by one of the ovaries. During this time, hormones prepare the uterus for pregnancy. If ovulation occurs but the egg is not fertilised, the uterine lining will shed through the vagina. This is a period of menstruation.
What is the norm?
Every woman has a unique menstrual cycle, which is measured from the first day of one period to the first day of the next. Periods of menstruation may occur every 21 to 35 days and last between two and seven days. In the first few years following the onset of menstruation, long cycles are common. However, as women age, their menstrual cycles tend to become shorter and more regular.
Your menstrual cycle may be regular (approximately the same length each month) or irregular, and your period may be light or heavy, painful or painless, long or short and still be considered normal. Within a broad range, “normal” refers to what you consider normal.
Consider that the use of certain contraceptives, such as birth control pills with an extended cycle and intrauterine devices (IUDs), will alter your menstrual cycle. Consult with your healthcare provider regarding what to expect.
As the menopause approaches, your cycle may become irregular again. However, because the risk of uterine cancer increases with age, discuss any menopausal bleeding irregularities with your doctor.
How can I track my monthly period?
To determine what is normal for you, begin recording your menstrual cycle on a calendar. Begin by recording your period’s start date for several consecutive months to determine its regularity.
If you’re concerned about your periods, you should also record the following monthly:
End date. How long does the average period last? Is it longer than usual or shorter?
Flow. Note the intensity of your flow. Does it weigh more or less than usual? How frequently must you replace your sanitary protection? Do you have any history of blood clots?
Unnatural bleeding. Are you bleeding in between periods?
Pain. Describe any pain you experience during your period. Is the pain more intense than usual?
There are different applications which one can use to track menstrual periods such as flo, clue, eve by glow, magic girl, my flow, etc.
What causes irregular menstrual cycles?
Menstrual cycle irregularities can be caused by a variety of factors, including:
- Perimenopause (generally in the late 40s and early 50s)
- Primary ovarian insufficiency (POI)
- Eating disorders (anorexia nervosa or bulimia)
- Excessive exercise
- Thyroid dysfunction (too much or too little thyroid hormone)
- Elevated levels of the hormone prolactin, which is made by the pituitary gland to help the body produce milk
- Uncontrolled diabetes
- Cushing’s syndrome (elevated levels of the hormone cortisol, used in the body’s response to stress)
- Late-onset congenital adrenal hyperplasia (problem with the adrenal gland)
- Hormonal birth control (birth control pills, injections, or implants)
- Hormone-containing intrauterine devices (IUDs)
- Scarring within the uterine cavity (Asherman’s syndrome)
- Medications, such as those to treat epilepsy or mental health problems
What can I do to prevent irregular menstrual cycles?
The use of birth control pills can help regulate menstrual cycles for some women. Treatment for underlying issues, such as an eating disorder, may also be beneficial. Nonetheless, certain menstrual irregularities cannot be avoided.
Additionally, consult a medical professional if:
Your periods stop abruptly for more than 90 days — and you’re not pregnant.
Your periods become irregular after being regular.
You bleed for longer than a week
You bleed heavier than usual or absorb more than one pad or tampon every two hours.
Less than 21 days or more than 35 days separate your periods.
You bleed between periods
You experience severe discomfort during your period.
You develop a sudden fever and feel ill after using tampons.